Reykjavík! A Fine Band Name

Icelandic rock band Reykjavik! recently released their debut album Glacial landscapes, religion, oppression and alcohol, through 12 Tónar. We invited guitar-owner and erstwhile backing vocalist Haukur Magnússon to answer some questions concerning the band, their album and some other things.

Why "Reykjavík!"?

I seem to recall Curver Thoroddsen drunkenly pointing out to me that Reykjavík would make a fine band name a few years ago, when we were just getting started. We usually say our name and its exclamation mark is partly a reference to the vast amount of hyperbole our great city has received these past few years, and we'll probably continue doing so. We are all from the boondocks so we experience Reykjavík hype from both sides: as part of its target market as well as being its proponents.

Main influences?

Glacial landscapes, religion, oppression and alcohol. Those things, in various proportions, have influenced most Icelanders for ages, creating a certain kind of Nordic Protestant ethic. We decided to wear our influences on our sleeves and thus opted for naming our debut, coming out on 12 Tónar by the end of June, after them.

Is Reykjavík! the best band in the world and if not, then who is?

It all depends on perspective, like anything of value. From a certain angle, at a certain time, all sweat-soaked, drunkenly stumbling about, ears ringing, nose bleeding, we could be the best band in the world. But maybe there's no room. There are too many bands out there as is. I once saw a band, comprised of a guitar player and a drummer, terrorize Grand Rokk's audience into a frenzy. They were called Snack Truck and I recall them being pretty great. Queen were also awesome.

How many beers do you drink before taking the stage?

Reykjavík! has thoroughly mastered the art of playing dead-drunk; thus, our level of onstage drunkenness is usually determined by the amount of free time we have beforehand. Playing our music is a sobering experience, but the ideal amount is about three to five beers - anything over or under and we'll probably fail.

Sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll?

The world is saturated by sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. It's getting kind of boring; we'll need to find something new soon.

Favourite Reykjavík bar?

Leðurbarinn (The Leather Bar); it offers a friendly and inviting atmosphere, cheap drinks and plenty of mischief for those interested. They also have a super-fun clientele. Sadly, they recently updated and tightened their dress policy so we can no longer attend. But the memories remain.